Cleaning Tips For Bathroom Countertops

May 15 2012

Bathroom countertops are made from a variety of different materials, placed on cabinets and vanities alike. Whether you have a marble, laminate or granite countertop, each has its own beautiful look, giving the room a unique atmosphere. However, if you don’t keep countertops clean, then it may cause irreparable damage, diminishing the overall ambiance of your home.

Each different material has its own requirements for cleaning, vital for homeowners to understand in order to keep them their best. The following are different types of materials used for countertops, and how to properly maintain them:

Cultured Marble: Cultured marble is given its shine from its gel coating, giving it a stain-resistant surface. However, culture marble is still susceptible to heat and scratches, which will damage the material over time. In order to maintain its shine and sheen, heed the following tips:

Cleaning – In order to take care of cultured marble countertops, clean regularly with a nonabrasive cleaner and soft scrubbers. To better protect the countertop, consider applying a coat of polish or wax onto the surface, reapplying after a certain amount of time. Make sure that you avoid excessive scouring and cleaning with abrasive products, as this will damage the countertop and leave irremovable stains.

Laminate: While laminate countertops are commonly seen in kitchens, they are also viewed in bathrooms. A cheap, manmade material, laminate is a standard, go-to product for many homeowners. However, they are not the most durable of materials, and require consistent care in order to stay clean.

Cleaning– Luckily, laminate is a relatively easy material to clean. Homeowners can use a wide variety of products in order to clean their countertops, ranging from bleach, soap, to simply a good scrubbing with water. However, avoid using abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers, in order to reduce the likelihood of scratches on the surface.

Granite: Granite countertops are one of the most durable substances available, able to withstand a fair amount of heat and scratches. However, homeowners should still take certain precautions in order to preserve the surface.

Cleaning – In general, avoid spilling liquids of a certain acidity onto the surface, such as orange juice or soft drinks. Unless they’re cleaned up immediately, they may cause damage onto your surface. Again, avoid harsh cleaning products, as this may create long-lasting damage. Instead, use mild products such as dish soap or baking soda. Finally, homeowners can add an extra layer of protection by applying a sealant onto the surface.

Wood: Not many homeowners consider wood as a material for countertops, believing that they require too much care and maintenance. However, they can give your bathroom a unique look and feel, providing a distinctive style. With proper care and cleaning know-how, you can ensure that your countertop lasts for years to come.

Cleaning – If your counters sustain any spillage, they clean up the mess as quickly as possible. Otherwise, the liquid may seep into your countertops, staining the material. Before cleaning, make sure that you wipe any spare particles away from the surface. Follow up with mild products, water, and a soft scrubber in order to clean the surface. After wiping away any products and water, dry your counters thoroughly with a towel.

About the Author Sara Fletcher, a writer for Premiere Vanities, enjoys learning about all aspects of the home ranging from walk in bathtubs to green furniture. She one day hopes to build her own dream home, complete with custom bathroom vanities.